The U.S. military said on Friday that it carried out a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean Sea, killing three people in what was described as an operation targeting narco-trafficking activities.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the vessel was “engaged in narco-trafficking operations” when it was struck, marking the latest such incident in recent months as the U.S. seeks to disrupt illicit drug routes in the region.
The announcement did not immediately provide details on the nationality of those killed or the exact location of the strike. Reuters was unable to independently verify the military’s account.
The Trump administration has highlighted a series of military actions against suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and surrounding waters, framing them as part of broader efforts to curb the flow of illegal narcotics toward the United States.
U.S. military officials have increasingly used surveillance and maritime interdiction operations to identify suspicious vessels linked to drug cartels. When vessels are deemed a threat or refuse to comply with orders, the U.S. military has authorized force under its counter-narcotics mandate.
The operations reflect heightened focus on maritime security in the Caribbean, a key transit route for drugs bound for North America. The military’s statement did not disclose the type of weaponry used or whether any contraband was recovered.
Regional governments and anti-drug enforcement agencies have worked with U.S. forces in recent years to share intelligence and coordinate actions against transnational trafficking networks. However, such military strikes are relatively rare and often draw attention due to concerns over the use of force in international waters.
The Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.